Dutch design and architecture studio Studio Makkink & Bey redesigned the interiors of the former Hôtel Dupanloup to function as work and meeting spaces for the International Research Centre of the University of Orléans.

The historic 17th-century Hôtel Dupanloup was previously the home of a bishop before being transformed into a library. With such a rich past, the designers were conscious to include it in the newest renovation. Therefore, each set of furnishings integrates elements from the building’s past and present as well as unique elements designed by the designers themselves.

For example, the building’s various renovations are captured in photo impressions on tables and chairs, and the curtains and carpets give homage to various brilliant minds from Orléans’ history. The interior also includes pieces of Ikea furniture that were transformed by students of l’ESAD, the design school of Orléans.

Thus, the designers created an design equation that can be found throughout the project varieng from period objects, bespoke objects, students’ transformation of a white Ikea object and existing objects by Studio Makkink & Bey (or an object of French or Dutch fabrication).

To visualise the rich cultural context, Makkink & Bey translated the stories from the local archives, including the House of Jeanne d’Arc, into graphic compositions printed onto carpets and curtains. The translucent textiles divide the space, creating separate rooms within the interior.

The result is an amazing mix of the antique and the contemporary. To find more examples of designs that draw inspiration from a historic aesthetic, read our short BESPOKE 4.0 summary.